Platform requirements:

  • Low, stable platform

  • At least as wide as the distance between the dog’s back feet

  • At least as long as the dog’s body length (i.e., distance between front and back feet when standing); use a longer platform in the beginning

  • No higher than the dog’s hock (i.e., ankle) height

Exercise:

  • Have dog stand square on the platform

What to do:

  1. Lure/cue dog to step onto the platform

  2. Mark + treat when dog has all four feet on the platform

  3. Encourage square stand

Progression options: